An exotic bacterial plant pathogen has been detected in a variety of imported parsley seed. The bacterium, Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum, (CaLsol) is commonly known as ‘vegetative disorder’ or ‘yellow decline’. In most cases, the bacterium does not damage parsley plants but it does have the potential to cause serious damage to some other Apiaceae crops which include carrot, celery, chervil, fennel, and parsnip

This is the first time this bacterium has been detected in Australia.

Further details can be found on the attached alert. If you suspect an issue of biosecurity concern you should report it through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.